Research Methods: The Science of Psychology

Learning Objectives

This section outlines the foundational goals for students studying research methods in psychology. Understanding these objectives is essential for mastering the scientific approach to psychological inquiry.

• Distinguish between basic research and applied research: Students should be able to identify the differences in purpose and application between these two types of research.

• Describe peer review and explain its value: Understanding the peer review process is crucial for evaluating the credibility of scientific findings.

• Identify and describe the six sections of a research article: Recognizing the structure of scientific articles aids in comprehension and critical analysis.

Psychology as Science

Psychologists as Scientists

Psychologists employ scientific methods to study behavior and mental processes. Their conclusions are based on systematic observation and empirical evidence, rather than intuition or anecdote.

• Empirical observation: Psychologists gather data through controlled observation and measurement.

• Objectivity: Research is conducted to minimize personal bias.

• Evidence-based practice: For example, therapists use interventions supported by scientific research.

• Consumers and producers of research: Psychologists both apply and generate new scientific knowledge.

Basic vs. Applied Research in Psychological Science

Definitions and Examples

Psychological research can be categorized as either basic or applied, each serving distinct purposes within the field.

• Basic research: Seeks to expand general knowledge and understanding.

• Applied research: Focuses on solving practical problems and improving outcomes.

Communicating Psychological Science: Reading About the Research

Scientific Journals and Peer Review

Findings in psychological science are primarily communicated through articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. The peer review process ensures the quality and credibility of research by having experts in the field critique and evaluate manuscripts before publication.

• Peer review: A process where research is evaluated by independent experts to ensure validity, reliability, and scientific merit.

• Value of peer review: Helps maintain high standards and prevents the dissemination of flawed or biased research.

Structure of a Research Article

Research articles in psychology typically follow a standardized format, which helps readers understand and evaluate the study.

• Abstract: A brief summary of the research question, methods, results, and conclusions.

• Introduction: Provides background information, literature review, and states the research hypothesis.

• Method: Describes how the study was conducted, including participants, materials, and procedures.

• Results: Presents the findings, often including statistical analyses and tables or figures.

• Discussion: Interprets the results, discusses implications, limitations, and suggests future research.

• References: Lists all sources cited in the article.

Example: A research article investigating the relationship between sleep and learning would include an abstract summarizing the study, an introduction reviewing previous research, a method section detailing how sleep was measured, results showing the impact of sleep on learning, a discussion of the findings, and references to relevant literature.

Additional info: These notes are based on textbook-style lecture slides and are suitable for introductory psychology students preparing for exams or assignments on research methods.